The twenty-three newly elected local government chairmen in Rivers State have been sworn in by the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd).

Naija News reports that they were sworn in at the Government House in Port Harcourt on Monday, following the presentation of their certificates of return by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC).

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Ibas urged the new local government bosses to move away from politics and focus on governance.

He commended the election that brought the local government chairmen to office, hailing it as a sign that democracy has been restored in Rivers State.

Ibas recalled that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared a state of emergency on March 18, 2025, following a breakdown of law and order and the collapse of governance at the local level.

He said: “This victory is not a prize to be enjoyed. It is a burden to be carried. It is not an entitlement, but a duty. It is not a call to self-interest, but to selfless service.

“You proved that democracy belongs to the people, that power must flow from the consent of the governed, and that no obstacle can weaken the resolve of a united citizenry.”

He commended the electorate for their discipline and active participation, as well as RSIEC for delivering a transparent, credible, and rancour-free electoral process.

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